Cellini, (chuh-lee-nee), Benvenuto (1500-1571)
Benvenuto Cellini was a sculptor, engraver, and one of the foremost goldsmiths of the Italian Renaissance. He created exquisitely crafted coins, vases, and ornaments. Born in Florence, Italy, Cellini was apprenticed to a goldsmith when he was 15. He created pieces for Pope Clement VII, Pope Paul III, French king Frances I, and Florentine noble Cosimo I de' Medici. Under Cosimo's patronage, he created many fine works in metal, including the colossal bronze statue Perseus and Medusa (1545-1554, Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence).

Cellini is also noted for his autobiography.